Benaiah's Promotion:

Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, emerges as a significant figure in the narrative of King Solomon's ascension to the throne of Israel. Known for his valor and loyalty, Benaiah was initially one of David's mighty warriors and the commander of the Cherethites and Pelethites, elite mercenary forces that served as David's personal bodyguard (2 Samuel 8:18, 1 Chronicles 18:17). His exploits, including the slaying of two Moabite champions and a lion in a pit on a snowy day, as well as his victory over a formidable Egyptian warrior, are recorded in 2 Samuel 23:20-23 and 1 Chronicles 11:22-25.

Benaiah's loyalty to Solomon during the turbulent transition of power from David to Solomon is pivotal. When Adonijah, another of David's sons, attempted to usurp the throne, Benaiah remained steadfast in his allegiance to Solomon. This loyalty was rewarded when Solomon, upon securing his kingship, appointed Benaiah as the commander of the army, replacing Joab, who had supported Adonijah (1 Kings 2:35). Benaiah's promotion was not only a testament to his military prowess but also to his unwavering fidelity to the divinely ordained king, Solomon.

Zadok's Appointment:

Zadok, a descendant of Aaron through Eleazar, played a crucial role in the religious and political landscape of Israel during the reigns of David and Solomon. Initially serving as a priest alongside Abiathar during David's reign, Zadok's loyalty to David was evident during Absalom's rebellion, where he, along with Abiathar, carried the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem at David's behest (2 Samuel 15:24-29).

The transition of power from David to Solomon marked a significant shift in Zadok's role. When Adonijah attempted to claim the throne, Abiathar sided with him, while Zadok remained loyal to Solomon. This loyalty was recognized and rewarded by Solomon, who appointed Zadok as the sole high priest, effectively removing Abiathar from his priestly duties (1 Kings 2:26-27, 1 Kings 2:35). This appointment fulfilled the prophecy against the house of Eli, to which Abiathar belonged, as recorded in 1 Samuel 2:27-36.

Zadok's appointment as high priest under Solomon solidified the religious reforms and centralization of worship in Jerusalem. His priesthood was marked by fidelity to the Davidic line and adherence to the covenantal traditions established by Moses. Zadok's lineage continued to hold the high priesthood, underscoring the divine favor and legitimacy of Solomon's reign and the centralization of worship in the newly constructed Temple in Jerusalem.